Howea belmoreana

Sentry Palm

The sentry palm plant is a similar tree when comparing it with the kentia. The scientific name is Howea Belmoreana and it's also known as the curly palm.

There are some difference’s and similarities between this plant and the kentia. The fronds arch over more on the H.belmoreana (similar wide leaflets though) and grows slower (see description below).

Description

Comparing the sentry with the kentia palm (Howea forsteriana): This palm (Howea) is much more of a slow growing plant than the kentia, and is a lot less popular for growing indoors (see more about the kentia here). The main difference in appearance is the sentry fronds arch over more.

Where they are cultivated: The sentry is native to Lord Howe Island (Australia) and cultivated there. The seeds are also sent to and cultivated in other countries including, the Hawaiian Islands.

How it looks and displaying: This is a feather type palm that displays wide fronds, not as wide as the coconut palm but wider than the parlor (parlor is the most popular). Because the fronds grow wide and the tree can grow well over 8ft tall - a suitable displaying space is required, such as a hallway or hotel entrance. Like most palms in the right setting this looks fantastic.